Improved blood contact surfaces using extracellular matrix synthesized (in vitro) having bioactive species immobilized thereto

摘要

This invention is directed to improved blood contact devices such as vascular prostheses rendered substantially nonthrombogenic through addition of a preserved layer of extracellular subendothelial matrix. The preserved subendothelial matrix layer, which serves as the blood interface of the device, is analogous to the subendothelial matrix layer beneath the endothelium of native vascular surfaces. The device consists of a permanent synthetic base material, preferably porous expanded polytetrafluoroethylene, on which this biologic layer of subendothelial matrix is grown in situ. The biologic layer is produced using in vitro tissue culture methods whereby living cells synthesize and deposit extracellular matrix components, after which the cells are killed and/or removed and the subendothelial matrix layer preserved before implantation. Bioactive species are then attached to the subendothelial matrix layer to enhance the patency performance of the matrix layer or as a mechanism through which a therapeutical treatment is administered to a patient. This invention results in vascular prostheses that are particularly useful for arterial bypass requiring a diameter of 6 mm of less.